Pat Cummins and Travis Head rejected massive offers to quit international cricket and play year-round in T20 leagues. The Age reported that an IPL franchise offered each player $10 million annually (≈₹58.2 crore) to participate in multiple T20 tournaments. However, both players chose to stay committed to Australia. Consequently, their decision has renewed talks about privatizing the Big Bash League to attract private investment and increase player salaries. Cricket Australia, state associations, and the players’ union have discussed the matter, but no official announcement has been made.

Pat Cummins’ Earnings

Cummins, Australia’s Test and ODI captain, earns around 3 million Australian dollars (≈₹17.48 crore) annually, including his captaincy stipend. Meanwhile, IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad retained him for ₹18 crore in 2025, down from ₹20.5 crore in 2024. Regular top Australian cricketers earn about 1.5 million Australian dollars (≈₹8.74 crore) per year.

Travis Head’s Earnings

Head, a powerful top-order batter, was signed by SRH for ₹6.8 crore in 2024. Then, his salary rose to ₹14 crore in 2025 due to his growing form.

Comparison With Other Australian Sports Stars

In contrast, cricketers still earn less than other top Australian athletes. Formula 1 driver Oscar Piastri earns 40 million Australian dollars, NBA star Josh Giddey 38 million, and NFL player Jordan Mailata 34 million.

Overall, Cummins and Head’s choice shows their strong commitment to international cricket, despite the lure of huge franchise money.